APRIL 14, 2021

STARR VISION CENTER

487-2440

300 East Main St. R.G.C.

Dr. Angie Ramirez Therapeutic Optometrist

CASTAÑEDA Auto Insurance & Bail Bonds

488-0808 487-7000 280 W. 2nd St. R.G.C.

The Law Office Of

J.M. “Chema” Garza Vol. 36, No. 15 WEEKLY WEDNESDAY • APRIL 14, 2021 Office (956) 487-6544 - Fax (956) 487-6165 - E-Mail: sctc78582@aol.com - www.starrcountytowncrier.com

Criminal Cases (Federal/State) Car Accidents/ 18 Wheeler Divorces • Real Estate/Deeds

956-317-1167 206 N. Britton Ave. Ste.B, R.G.C. jmchemagarza@gmail.com

487-2596 4343 E. Hwy. 83 R.G.C.

Installment Loans 668 E. Grant St. Ste A&B Roma TX 78584-5312

Phone (956) 849-4497

Dr. Raymond Cruz Best FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Insurance, Medicaid and Chip Accepted

487-2999 419 East 2nd St. Rio Grande City, Tx.

Roma High Students Move on to Compete in 2021 State VASE Art Competition Roma High School is proud to announce that six Roma High School Art Program students have been selected to show their work for the 2021 VASE (Visual Art Scholastic Event) State Competition. The students are Karol Gonzalez Garcia, Debanhi Garza, Ira Garza, Wendy Ortiz Martinez, Josmari Ortiz, and Mira Trevino. In addition, of the 78 entries submitted to the competition this year from Mighty Gladiators, the program students earned 62 medals for perfect scores for their amazing work!

“We want to congratulate these students who have overcome a lot of obstacles to prepare their pieces and continue honing their skills during these difficult times,” said Roma High Art Program Teacher Yesenia Toscano. “Usually the students can work in the studio and get our guidance along the way. They have really persevered and worked with us to try and get the feedback they needed. We can’t tell you how amazed we are at what they have accomplished. This is a real honor for us to be able to showcase their

work. They have exceeded our expectations, and we can’t wait to see what the judges at the state level have to say about their awesome abilities.”

Annually, more than 32,000 entries are submitted to the VASE competition, which is run by the Texas Art Education Association, and out of that, only 1,600 works advanced to the state event. Out of the state winners, only 150 receive

the gold seal medallion, which is the highest-ranking award that can be earned in state-level competition.

We wish all these students good luck at the state-level competition!

We also want to congratulate Roma High Art Program teachers Sharai Garcia, Lizzet Lund, and Yesenia Toscano for their passionate advocacy of the program and their diligence in helping their students grow and mature in this field!

STARR of Hope receives donation from L&F Distributors for Domestic Violence Shelter Services

L&F Distributors donated $1,000 to STARR of Hope, a local domestic violence shelter located in Starr County on April 6. “We are extremely appreciative to L&F Distributors for their commitment to this organization and our efforts to support women and children through difficult times in their lives. Their donation will go directly to operational costs associated with running an emergency shelter facility specifically for victims of Domestic Abuse and Violence”, said Program Coordinator, Sara Hernandez. If anyone is a victim of domestic abuse and is in need of emergency shelter services, please reach out to your local police department or contact STARR of Hope directly at 956-486-1200. Pictured L to R: Sara Hernandez, STARR of Hope Program Coordinator; Elijio Garcia, L&F Distributors Region Manager; Rosa Gonzalez, STARR of Hope Board President.

OPEN MON-SUN 7AM-7PM

BIG DOOR SALE LARGE SELECTION

WE HAVE A NEW LINE OF DOORS AVAILABLE

956-487-2140 5470 E. HWY 83 R.G.C. TX 956-519-3237 • 6601 W. HWY 83 - MISSION, TX

• Individual • Partnership • Corporations • LLC’s • Bookkeeping • Payroll • Financial Statements • Form 2290 • IRS Audit Representation

Mario A. Méndez, EA Licensed to practice before the IRS (Internal Revenue Service)

(NEW LOCATION)

201 S. San Antonio. St. Rio Grande City, TX (956)

317-1124

CHUY Alvarez ATTORNEY AT LAW

El abogado con mas de 34 años de experiencia

501 N. Britton Ave • Rio Grande City, Texas

956-487-4871 Cell: 956-208-0282 NOT CERTIFIED BY THE TEXAS BOARD OF LEGAL SPECIALIZATION

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 14, 2021, PAGE 2

Obituary Juan Jose (Coty) Gonzalez

11/12/1943 † 04/04/2021 Mr. Juan Jose (Coty) Gonzalez, Age, 77, passed away on Sunday April 04, 2021 at his residence in Rio Grande City surrounded by his family. He was born in Rio Grande City, Texas on November 12, 1943 to Crisoforo and Antonia Guerra Ramirez Gonzalez.

He was a great husband, father, grandfather and a good friend to all. He will be dearly missed by all, He was married to Angela Castro Gonzalez for 53 years. He is survived by his children, Olga (Ruben) Gonzalez Romero, Edna (Rene) Gonzalez Ramirez Jr., Jose Israel Gonzalez also by his grandson, Rene Raul Ramirez III. His brother Enrique Gonzalez (Olga) and sister Bertha (Joe) Gonzalez Garza.

2nd Anniversary

El Señor te bendiga y te guarde; el Señor te mire con agrado y te extienda su amor; el Señor te muestre su favor y te conceda la paz. (Números 6:24-26) Señor Dios, ayúdame a reconocer tu obra y las bendiciones que traes a mi vida. Quiero percatarme de tu mover a mi favor y sobre todas las cosas, quiero recibir tu paz y vivir confiando en ti. S.G.

In loving Memory of

Gilda Zarate

2,500.00 FULLWITH FUNERAL SERVICE SILVER $

“We think about you always,we talk about you still you have not been forgotten and never will. We hold you close within our hearts,and their you will remain to walk and guide us through our lives.

Until we meet again,Mom”.

We Love You, Your Sons and Daughter

En Memoria de

Raul Rios 4/ 26/ 1947 † 4/19/2018

Te fuiste al cielo,

y yo me quedé aquí, con una sonrisa fingida, porque desde que no estas yo no he vuelto a sonreír como solía hacerlo contigo, aún hay días que sigo esperando tu llegada, porque tengo la esperanza de algún día volver a verte. Espérame haya, apárteme mi lugar que algún día me tendré que ir también.

Funeral Home

301 E. 2nd. St. Rio Grande City, Tx. 78582

March 5, 1955 † April 15, 2019

(956) 487-2525

CALL JEFF OR SONATA SANCHEZ

“Serving Our Community For Over 86 Years” “Caring for you & your loved ones in your time of need ”

Sanchez

Memorial Funeral Home 101 AR Sanchez Sr. Dr. Roma, Tx. 78584

(956) 847-7008

Jesus “Chuy” Rodriguez

Many thanks to those who showed kindness to our family during our time of grief. We express our sincerest gratitude to those who attended service and for the flowers, cards, food, and prayers. GOD BLESS YOU ALL!

Misa de Tercer Aniversario

Sanchez

METAL CASKET

You gave no one a last farewell, no ever said good-bye. You were gone before we knew it, and only God knows why. A million times we will miss you. A million times we will cry. If love alone could have saved you, you never would have died.

In life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still. In our hearts you hold a place no one else can fill. It broke our hearts to lose you, but you didn’t go alone, for part of us went with you, the day God took you home. We will meet again someday; I know in a better place. I thank God he made you, our brother, while you were here on earth.

On behalf of our family, we would like to extend our thank you to Saul Rodriguez and Tony Rodriguez, owner of Longhorn Transport, for rendering help to our brother, Jesus “Chuy” Rodriguez, when he was in Houston. We would also like to thank our family and friends for always being there for our brother when he needed you all. We appreciate and are grateful for the love and support during this dif�icult time.

Thank you on behalf of, Javier, Yvette, and Jaylynn Rodriguez (son), Belinda Garza and family (sister), and Anabelia Pena and family (sister)

Se celebrara una misa el Sábado 17 de Abril a la 5:00 p.m. en la Iglesia Inmaculada Concepcion en Rio Grande City, Texas

Familia Rios y Lopez

WEDNESDAY APRIL 14TH - I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †TEODORO RAMON (12TH AN.)

by Family †ALBERTO BARRERA, SR.

by Wife & Children †JUAN JOSE RIOS by Family THURSDAY APRIL 15TH - I.C.C. 6:30 A.M. †ERNESTO VELA (6TH AN.)

by Vela Family FRIDAY APRIL 16TH - I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †RENATO CHAVEZ by Lizbie B. Lopez †BALDOMERO GARCIA

by Wife & Children †OTILA M. HENDERSON (37TH AN.)

by Mr. & Mrs. Santos Carrion, Jr. SATURDAY APRIL 17TH - I.C.C. 5:00 P.M. †IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR RGCHS CLASSMATES OF 1962

by RGCHS Class of 1962

Date: April 14, 2021

†RAUL RIOS (3RD AN.)

by Rios & Lopez Family †RENATO CHAVEZ

by Hector & Dora Gonzalez †EMIGDIO & JESUS RODRIGUEZ

by Su Familia SUNDAY APRIL 18TH - I.C.C. 9:00 A.M. †RAQUEL VELASCO VALLE

by Gloria De Loera †DAGO H. VILLARREAL

by Friends from California †NARCEDALIA GUERRERO

by Husband & Family †LUCIO ROMERO (8TH AN.)

by Su Familia †CRUZ GARCIA by Su Esposa e Hijos SUNDAY APRIL 18TH - I.C.C. 11:00 A.M. †GUADALUPE & SANJUANITA CRUZ

by Mary B. Lopez †IGNACIO & MANUELA S. GUERRA

by Rosario G. Pope & Family

†GILBERTO MARTINEZ

by Perez Family †CYNTHIA ROCHA

by Crus & Molleigh Flores WEDDING ANNIVERSARY OF NESTOR & TERESA TIAMBENG

by Gavino Family IN THANKSGIVING FOR THE BIRTHDAY OF CENY GAVINO

by Gavino Family 5:00 P.M. †MR. & MRS. RAFAEL MARTINEZ

by Mr. & Mrs. Edmundo B. Garcia, Jr. †MR. & MRS. RAFAEL & NORMA MARTINEZ

by Mr. & Mrs. Edmundo B. Garcia, Jr. †MR. & MRS. LIBRADO RAMIREZ

by Mr. & Mrs. Edmundo B. Garcia, Jr. †MR. & MRS. JOSE GUADALUPE MARTINEZ

by Mr. & Mrs. Edmundo B. Garcia, Jr. †MANUEL GARZA

by Family

NOVENA “Miraculous Prayer” Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for favors. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favor). Take it, Dear Jesus, and place it within your own heart, where your Father sees it. Then, in your merciful eyes it will become your favor, not mine.

Amen.

Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favor will be granted.

Never known to fail.

A. P. R.

MONDAY APRIL 19TH– I.C.C. 6:00 P.M. †RENE CREMAR by Family †BASIL VILLENO by Cadavez Family †MARIA ELISA FLORES GARCIA

by Angelica Barrera Brown of Class of 1958 POR LA SALUD DE NANCY LEE ROLLINS by Family TUESDAY APRIL 20TH – I.C.C. 6.30 A.M. PRO OPULO - MASS SAID FOR THE PEOPLE

Date April 14, 2021

Property Owners Can Protest Property Starr County Appraisal District Reminds Businesses to Appraisal Values Property owners who disagree with the Starr County Appraisal District’s appraisal of their property for local taxes or for any other action that adversely affects them may protest their property value to the appraisal district’s Appraisal Review Board (ARB).

A property owner must file a written notice of protest before May 15 or within 30 days after the appraisal district delivers the property owner’s notice of appraised value, whichever is later. The ARB will begin hearing taxpayer protests on May 12, 2021.

After the ARB completes its hearings and approves final property tax appraisals, taxing units will use these appraisals to set property tax rates.

The ARB is a group of citizens who live in the appraisal district. In counties with 120,000 or more population, the local district administrative judge appoints ARB members.

Otherwise, the appraisal district’s board of directors appoints them. Property owners may protest any of the following issues to the ARB: • the appraised or market value of the property; • unequal appraisal of the owner’s property; • inclusion of the property on the appraisal records; • denial of a partial exemption, such as a homestead exemption; • denial of special appraisal, such as agricultural or timber productivity appraisal; • determination that agricultural or timberland has had a change of use and is subject to a rollback tax; • identification of the taxing unit or taxing units in which the property is located; • determination that the taxpayer is the owner of the property; or • any other action of the appraisal district office or ARB that adversely affects the owner.

The ARB schedules a hearing and sends the protesting property owner written notice of the date, time and place of the hearing. The law contains specific timelines and procedures for both the property owner and the ARB throughout the appraisal protest process. These are detailed in the Comptroller’s publication, Property Taxpayer Remedies.

Copies are available from Starr County Appraisal District at

100 N. FM 3167, Ste. 300 Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 Ph. (956) 487-5613 www.starrcad.org

The publication is also available on the Comptroller’s Property Tax Assistance Division’s website at comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/.

Render their Taxable Property by April 15

If you own tangible personal property that is used to produce income, you must file a rendition with the Starr County Appraisal District by April 15.

A rendition is a report that lists all the taxable property you owned or controlled on Jan. 1 of this year.

Property includes inventory and equipment used by a business. Owners do not have to render exempt property, such as church property or an agriculture producer’s equipment used for farming.

“The appraisal district may use the information submitted in the rendition to set property values,” said Rosalva Guerra.

You can also file a report of decreased value to notify the appraisal district of significant depreciation of your property. “For example, if your property was damaged by a storm, flood or fire last year, you should file a report of decreased value. The appraisal district will look at your property before assigning a value,” said Guerra.

For most property types, renditions must be filed after Jan. 1 and no later than April 15.

Different deadlines apply in certain appraisal districts. A property owner may apply, in writing, for a mandatory extension to May 15.

Different deadlines apply for regulated properties.

A 10 percent to 50 percent penalty may be imposed if a rendition is filed late, incomplete or not at all.

Property owners who need more time to file their renditions may file a written request with the chief appraiser on or before the rendition deadline to receive an automatic extension.

The chief appraiser may extend the deadline another 15 days for good cause shown in writing by the property owner for each type of property.

For more information about rendering property, deadline extensions, penalties and rendition forms, taxpayers may contact the Starr County Appraisal District at

100 N. FM 3167, Ste. 300 Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 Ph. (956) 487-5613 www.starrcad.org

Information is also available from the Comptroller’s Property Tax Assistance Division’s website at comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 14, 2021, PAGE 3

Lee House Museum Receives $2,000.00 grant renovations please follow us on Facebook: Revive Fort Ringgold.

Fort Ringgold is planning its 175th Anniversary Fall 2023. Be part of history, be part of the celebration.

For more information contact COL (Ret) Ross Barrera at 956-7354790.

To schedule a tour of the Robert E. Lee House please contact city trolley tours at 956-487-0672.

Fort Ringgold’s Robert E. Lee House museum has secured a $2,000.00 grant from Rio Grande City’s Main Street Program. Sara Hernandez’s director of Tourism presented Colonel (Ret) Ross Barrera Fort Ringgold Historic Operations & Preservation Officer with a city check in the amount of $2,000.00. The funds will be used to give the entire house a fresh coat of much need paint, add a new and improved handicap entrance ramp, replace windows and other items

with much needed attention. The school district has also added a new cooling unit and has improved some roofing and landscaping areas. The Lee House Museum is undergoing a slight renovation and upgrades on the current displays in preparation for Summer and Fall tourist season.

Revive Fort Ringgold a NonProfit Organization (501c) continues to promote Fort Ringgold renovations.

For updates on projects, events and

Congratulations to Roma High Lady Gladiator Basketball Player Georgette Barrera #4 on being named a 2021 Texas Association of Basketball Coaches (TABC) Academic All-State Player!

Georgette is a team leader who shows tremendous dedication to her development on and off the court. She is a role model for all Lady Gladiators.

Roma Lady Gladiator Makes All-State Academic Team

­

RGCHS Boys and Girls Golfers Qualified for Regionals

Congratulations to the Rio Grande City High School Boys and Girls Golfers! Rio Grande City High School are proud to announce that both teams placed 3rd Overall, with four individuals qualifying for Regionals. From left to right: Jaylen Gonzalez, Vanessa Garza, Alan Garcia, and Eric Garza. Congratulations to all the students and coaches!

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 14, 2021, PAGE 4

How to identify blacklegged ticks How parents can utilize their local library Lyme disease poses a bigger threat to people living in certain areas than it does to others. For example, the Centers for Disease

Control and Prevention reports that and the upper midwest. However, the highest incidence rates for Lyme no one, regardless of where they disease occur in regions including live, is immune to Lyme disease.

According to the CDC, New England, the mid-Atlantic blacklegged ticks are the specific type of tick that causes Lyme disease.

Nature enthusiasts might be surprised to learn that NOTICE OF INTENTION TO ENTER blacklegged tick bites also can transmit other diseases and INTO DEPOSITORY CONTRACT infections, including anaplasmosis, Eloy Vera, County Judge of the County of Starr, State of babesiosis and Powassan disease.

Various types of ticks pose Texas, does hereby give Notice that the Commissioners Court of Starr County, Texas, will consider bids to act as Depository a threat to human health, but blacklegged ticks may inspire the for the County Funds.

Sealed Bids should be addressed to Eloy Vera, County Judge most fear due to their connection of Starr County, Rio Grande City, Texas, with notation in lower to Lyme disease. Learning to recognize blacklegged ticks can left hand corner of envelope “Bids on Bank Depository”. Bids calm those fears and increase the will be received by the County Judge’s Office, 100 N. FM likelihood that homeowners can 3167, STE. 202, RIO GRANDE CITY, TEXAS 78582 at 9:00 prevent tick infestations before A.M. APRIL 19, 2021. Bids received after the date and time they get out of hand. According specified will be returned unopened. The County will not be to the pest control experts at responsible for late deliveries or mail delays. Fax Transmittal Terminix®, the following are some characteristics of blacklegged will NOT be accepted.

By order of the County Judge of Starr County, Texas on this ticks. · Size: Blacklegged ticks are the 5th, day of April, 2021. tiny. Nymphs can be as small as the size of the head of a pin, while adults measure one-eighth of an inch. This size underscores the

Bid Notice

importance of conducting thorough examinations of your body and the bodies of your children after spending time in the yard. Inspect carefully, as ticks are so small that it’s easy for them to go unrecognized. · Color: Ticks are dark brown to black and have dark legs. It’s easy to mistake ticks for freckles or moles. Look carefully if you notice any areas on you or your children’s skin that seem to have a new freckle or mole. · Behavior: Ticks need blood meals at each stage of life in order to grow. Though it’s possible to find ticks anywhere on the body, the CDC notes that they tend to seek out certain areas. Such areas include under the arms, in and around the ears, inside the belly button, the backs of the knees, between the legs, and around the waist. Ticks also can be found in and around all head and body hair, so it’s vital that people ask someone to inspect the hair on their heads and use a mirror to inspect private areas. Parents should carefully check their children’s hair and even insist that kids wear hats when spending time in the woods or yards where ticks have been found.

Learning to recognize them is a crucial step to preventing Lyme disease.

Finding productive ways for their children to fill their time has been an ongoing issue for parents since the pandemic began. Schoolage children may not be going to school for full days, and many virtual learning programs also end around lunchtime. But a familiar local resource may be just what parents need to keep their kids occupied at home on weekday afternoons.

Local libraries are invaluable community resources, and that value has become even more apparent during the pandemic.

Parents can utilize local libraries in various ways, each of which can help fill youngsters’ time during those hours when school is not in session. · Online story time: In normal times, many libraries host in person story time sessions for young children. Many libraries have been unable to host in person story time since the start of the pandemic. But those same libraries may have transitioned to online story time. For example, the New York Public Library in New York City hosts weekday story times through its website. During such sessions, librarians read books, sing songs and even share literacy tips. An archive of story times is available at https://www.nypl. org/education/kids/storytime, and

many local libraries offer similar services. · Craft sessions: Some libraries even offer free craft projects to members. Supplies can be picked up at the library on predetermined days of the week, and then families can work on the projects together at home or with other families through Zoom calls hosted by library employees. Parents can inquire with their local libraries to see if such programs are available in their communities. · Academic support: Some local libraries even offer academic support, which can be especially valuable in the era of virtual learning when kids have little oneon-one time with their teachers.

Tutoring services may be available via a local library, which also may supply supplemental materials like interactive learning tools that can bring lessons to life. *** Borrow books! Read a magazine! Take an online class!

Stream a movie! Listen to music!

Learn a new language! Begin your family history research! Get help starting a new career! Create your resume!

All FREE with your RGC Public Library card. +Free Wi-Fi @library! Call 956-487-4389 or visit www.rgclibrary.org.

STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS South Texas College is accepting sealed qualifications for the following: RFP Number 20-21-1046

Description Statement of Qualifications - Bond Counsel Services

Date Due April 30, 2021

Time 3:00 pm

Request for Qualifications (RFQ) packages may be obtained at the Purchasing Department located at 3200 W Pecan Blvd Bldg N Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501 (Corner of Quince & 31st Street) or by email request at stcpurchasing@southtexascollege.edu. Responses received after the specified time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened.

Facsimile responses will not be accepted. All responses must be submitted in a sealed envelope. Responses need to be clearly marked on the envelope with the RFQ number.

The successful respondent will not be determined on opening date. Responses will be studied and be taken into consideration by the Board of Trustees. South Texas College reserves the right to reject any and all responses submitted and to request additional information if necessary, to waive any formalities or technicalities, and to accept the qualifications considered to be the best and most advantageous to South Texas College.

Questions regarding this RFQ or requests for additional information should be addressed to Becky Cavazos, Director of Purchasing (956) 872-4681 beckyc@southtexascollege.edu, or Billy Langley, Senior Buyer of Purchasing, (956) 872-4682 welangle@southtexascollege. edu. Responses to the RFQ must be submitted to South Texas College, 3200 W Pecan Blvd Bldg N Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501.

South Texas College is an equal education and equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. As an equal opportunity employer, the College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following:

South Texas College is accepting competitive proposals for the following:

RFP Number 20-21-1040

RFP Number 20-21-1045

Description DHSI Grant Consultant

Date Due April 29, 2021

Time 2:00 pm

Request for Proposals packages may be obtained at the Purchasing Department located at 3200 W. Pecan Blvd, Bldg N, Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501 (Corner of Quince & 31st Street) or by email request at stcpurchasing@southtexascollege.edu. Responses received after the specified time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened.

Facsimile responses will not be accepted. All responses must be submitted in a sealed envelope. Responses need to be clearly marked on the envelope with the RFP number.

The successful respondent will not be determined on opening date. Responses will be studied and be taken into consideration by the Board of Trustees. South Texas College reserves the right to reject any and all responses submitted and to request additional information if necessary, to waive any formalities or technicalities, and to accept the proposal considered to be the best and most advantageous to South Texas College.

Questions regarding this RFP or requests for additional information should be addressed to Becky Cavazos, Director of Purchasing 956-872-4681 beckyc@southtexascollege.edu, or Billy Langley, Senior Buyer of Purchasing, 956-872-4682 welangle@southtexascollege. edu. Responses to the RFP must be submitted to South Texas College, 3200 W. Pecan Blvd, Bldg N, Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501.

South Texas College is an equal education and equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. As an equal opportunity employer, the College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.

Purchases made as a result of this solicitation will be funded through a grant from the United States Department of Education and passing through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Description Date Due Dual User Virtual Reality April 26, 2021 Welding Training Simulator II

Time 2:00 pm

Request for Proposals packages may be obtained at the Purchasing Department located at 3200 W. Pecan Blvd, Bldg N, Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501 (Corner of Quince & 31st Street) or by calling 956-872-4681. Responses received after the specified time and date will not be considered and will be returned unopened. Facsimile responses will not be accepted. All responses must be submitted in a sealed envelope. Responses need to be clearly marked on the envelope with the RFP number.

The successful respondent will not be determined on opening date. Responses will be studied and be taken into consideration by the Board of Trustees. South Texas College reserves the right to reject any and all responses submitted and to request additional information if necessary, to waive any formalities or technicalities, and to accept the proposal considered to be the best and most advantageous to South Texas College.

Questions regarding this RFP or requests for additional information should be addressed to Becky Cavazos, Director of Purchasing 956-872-4681 beckyc@southtexascollege.edu, or Billy Langley, Senior Buyer of Purchasing, 956-872-4682 welangle@southtexascollege.edu.

Responses to the RFP must be submitted to South Texas College, 3200 W. Pecan Blvd, Bldg N, Ste 145, McAllen, TX 78501.

South Texas College is an equal education and equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. As an equal opportunity employer, the College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.

Purchases made as a result of this solicitation will be funded through a grant from the United States Department of Education and passing through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 14, 2021, PAGE 5

Roma High Orchestra Program Students Earn Regional Honors, Five Move on to State Congratulations to the Roma High School Mighty Gladiator Orchestra & Guitar Program students who earned honors at the Regional UIL Solo & Ensemble Competition! The Gladiator Nation is super proud of all these students and can’t wait to see how the state qualifiers perform at the next level.

S a l v e , custodio d e l Redentor y esposo de la Virgen María.

A ti Dios confió a su Hijo, en ti María depositó su confianza, contigo Cristo se forjó como hombre.

Oh, bienaventurado José, muéstrate padre también a nosotros y guíanos en el camino de la vida.

Concédenos gracia, misericordia y valentía, y defiéndenos de todo mal.

AMEN Melissa Y. Hernandez

Paseo del Arte Virtual Art Shows Rio Grande City Public Library hosted two Paseo del Arte Virtual Art Shows. The Youth Art Show featured kid’s original drawings using their favorite medium— paint, pencil, crayons, collage, etc.

Participants were entered into a drawing for door prizes courtesy of RGC Main Street. Winners of the random drawing are Ciara Barrera, Miguel Martinez, Osiel Moreno, Dariela Carmona and

Jacob Hinojosa.

The Teen and Adult Art Show, features a short video or photograph of their music, poetry and/or original art work. All participants were entered into a drawing for door prizes courtesy of RGC Main Street. Winners of the random drawing are Jacqueline Gutierrez, Aileen Gonzalez, Morgan Aguilar, Kassandra Garcia, and Andres Moncada.

Rio Grande City’s Paseo del Arte is about celebrating creativity, culture, and community. We hope you enjoy the show available on the RGC Public Library’s YouTube.

Paseo del Arte is a collaboration with City of Rio Grande City, RGC Economic Development Corporation, RGC Main Street Program and RGC Public Library.

For more information call 956487-4389.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 14, 2021, PAGE 6

El Gobernador Abbott y HHSC anuncian la extensión de los beneficios SNAP de emergencia para abril

El gobernador Greg Abbott y la Comisión de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Texas (HHSC) proporcionarán aproximadamente $ 254 millones en beneficios de alimentos de emergencia del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria (SNAP) durante el mes de abril mientras el estado continúa su respuesta a la pandemia de COVID-19.

“Esta extensión de SNAP para el mes de abril garantizará que las familias de Texas puedan seguir poniendo comida en la mesa”, dijo el gobernador Abbott. “Gracias al USDA por esta extensión adicional y por su asociación continua con el estado de Texas”.

“Los tejanos han demostrado su capacidad de recuperación durante la pandemia, y estamos orgullosos de ayudar a servir a nuestro estado

al brindarles a los beneficiarios de SNAP estos beneficios adicionales”, dijo Wayne Salter, comisionado ejecutivo adjunto de Servicios de Elegibilidad y Acceso al HHS de Texas.

La HHSC recibió la aprobación federal del Departamento de Agricultura de EE. UU. (USDA) para garantizar que todos los hogares de SNAP reciban un mínimo de $95 en asignaciones de emergencia. Los hogares que actualmente no reciben una asignación de emergencia ahora recibirán $95 adicionales por mes. Los hogares que actualmente reciben una asignación de emergencia inferior a $95 recibirán una asignación adicional por la diferencia. Los hogares que actualmente reciben una asignación de emergencia de más de $95 no verán un cambio en sus

beneficios.

Las asignaciones de emergencia de abril se suman a los más de $2.7 mil millones en beneficios proporcionados anteriormente a los tejanos desde abril de 2020.

Los beneficiarios también seguirán recibiendo un aumento del 15 por ciento en sus beneficios totales, que continuarán mensualmente hasta septiembre de 2021. Este aumento adicional del 15 por ciento y el monto adicional de la asignación de emergencia deben aparecer en las cuentas de los beneficiarios antes del 30 de abril.

Los tejanos necesitados pueden solicitar beneficios, incluidos SNAP y Medicaid, en YourTexasBenefits.com o usar la aplicación móvil Your Texas Benefits para administrar sus beneficios.

How to avoid or overcome workplace conflicts No matter how welcoming and inclusive an office setting is, conflicts can still arise. Minor events may blow over, but there may be instances when some intervention may be needed.

Research conducted by the personality assessment consultancy OPP, in conjunction with the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development, found that 85 percent of working professionals have to deal with conflict at some point.

Conflict shouldn’t be feared, as it can sometimes be good for a company. It’s an indicator that some are willing to step up and go to bat for their ideas, even if not everyone agrees with their particular vision. But steps can be taken to minimize blow-ups and resolve conflict in effective ways. · Improve positive outlooks.

Positive people may be better equipped to deal with adversity and stress. Boosting morale and improving on positivity in the workplace can make going to work more pleasant for all

involved and potentially reduce the likelihood of serious conflicts. · Encourage everyone to be team players. Certain people may naturally gravitate toward one another, but cliques or overly tight-knit groups at the office should be discouraged.

These groups can make others feel alienated, a prime reason for arguments and conflict.

If someone is trying to rally supporters for the wrong reasons, other employees should decline and say they value working with everyone. · Don’t encourage drama.

Encourage employees to share concerns openly and not through gossip. · Address and validate people’s feelings and opinions.

According to Brittany Hodak, an entrepreneur and keynote speaker, humans are emotional creatures and conflict can happen when feelings get hurt.

Employees who are involved in situations should be spoken to immediately. Ensure them that

their feelings are being noted and address any issues immediately and straightforwardly. · Communicate respectively.

Draft emails and text messages carefully because tone may be implied when others are not able to hear you or read body language. Communication can be direct, but it should never be nasty. · Avoid personality clashes.

Employees should be able to work together, but some may just not prove compatible. No one needs to be best friends, but they should be civil. If personalities clash, these employees may be best suited to separate teams or projects to minimize interaction.

Conflicts can occur in the workplace. But when properly addressed, conflicts can make for a better, more inclusive workplace.

Federal Grantees May Now Use Funds to Purchase Fentanyl Test Strips New Guidance Aims to Reduce Drug Overdose Deaths The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced that federal funding may now be used to purchase rapid fentanyl test strips (FTS) in an effort to help curb the dramatic spike in drug overdose deaths largely driven by the use of strong synthetic opioids, including illicitly manufactured fentanyl.

FTS can be used to determine if drugs have been mixed or cut with fentanyl, providing people who use drugs and communities with important information about fentanyl in the illicit drug supply so they can take steps to reduce their risk of overdose.

“This is a major step forward in the ongoing and critical work to prevent overdose and connect people who have substance use disorders to evidence-based treatment options,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use Tom Coderre, the interim leader at SAMHSA. “This will save lives by providing tools to identify the growing presence of fentanyl in the nation’s illicit drug supply and – partnered with referrals

to treatment – complement SAMHSA’s daily work to direct help to more Americans.”

Approximately 88,000 drug overdose deaths occurred in the United States in the 12 months ending in August 2020, the highest number of overdose deaths ever recorded in a 12-month period, according to provisional data from CDC, and overdose deaths have continued to accelerate during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We must do all we can to save lives from drug overdoses,” said CDC Director Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH. “The increase in drug overdose deaths related to synthetic opioids such as illicitly made fentanyl is a public health crisis that requires immediate action and novel strategies. State and local programs now have another tool to add to their on-the-ground efforts toward reducing and preventing overdoses, in particular fentanylrelated overdose deaths.”

Impacted Grantees Overdose response programs funded through the following awards will be directly impacted and can now use program funds to purchase FTS. CDC’s multiyear Overdose Data to Action cooperative agreement began in September

2019 and funds health departments in 47 states; Washington, D.C.; two territories; and 16 cities and counties for drug overdose surveillance and prevention efforts. Funds awarded as part of this agreement support health departments in obtaining high quality, more comprehensive, and timelier data on overdose morbidity and mortality and using those data to implement prevention and response efforts.

SAMHSA’s State Opioid Response (SOR) grant aims to address the opioid crisis by increasing access to medicationassisted treatment, reducing unmet treatment need and reducing opioid overdose-related deaths through supporting prevention, treatment, and recovery activities for opioid use disorder. SOR supplements current state and territory opioidrelated activities and supports a comprehensive response to the opioid epidemic.

Background Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid used for treating severe pain and is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Most recent cases of fentanyl-related harm, overdose and death in the United States are linked to illicitly made fentanyl. It is often

mixed with heroin and/or cocaine to increase its euphoric effects.

The risk of overdose exists when any fentanyl is present given its potency and lethality, but risk is especially high among persons who are not tolerant to it and may not be aware of the presence of fentanyl in what they are using.

Learn more about what CDC is doing to prevent opioid-related deaths on CDC’s Efforts to Prevent Opioid Overdoses and Other Opioid-Related Harms webpage.

People who have substance use disorder can find evidence-based treatment and service options near them by visiting https:// findtreatment.gov or by calling the 24/7, national Helpline at 800-662-HELP (4357).

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 14, 2021, PAGE 7

Did you know?

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 250 million preschool children are vitamin A deficient. That’s a significant concern, as children who are not getting enough vitamin A are at greater risk for severe visual impairment and blindness.

Vitamin A deficiency also increases a child’s risk of severe illness, and even death, from common childhood infections, including diarrheal disease and measles.

The WHO notes that breast milk is a natural source of vitamin A and urges mothers of infants to breastfeed to ensure children get ample amounts of vitamin A. Parents of older children

can look to various healthy foods to make sure youngsters are getting enough vitamin A. The National Institutes of Health notes that foods such as sweet potatoes, carrots and fortified cereals typically contain substantial amounts of vitamin A. The U.S. National Library of Medicine reports that various animal products, including meat, fish, poultry, and dairy products, also contain significant amounts of vitamin A. Parents can speak with their children’s pediatricians to determine the healthiest, most effective ways to ensure their youngsters are getting enough vitamin A.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE CITY OF RIO GRANDE CITY 2021-2022 TEXAS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM

(Published on April 14, 2021)

The City of Rio Grande will hold a public hearing at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 19, 2021, at City Council Chamber, located at 5332 E. US Highway 83, Rio Grande City, Texas regarding the submission of an application to the Texas Department of Agriculture for 2021-2022 Texas Community Development Block Grant Program (TxCDBG) grant. Social distancing and masks are required if attending in person.

The purpose of this meeting is to allow citizens an opportunity to discuss the citizen participation plan, the development of local housing and community development needs, the amount of TxCDBG funding available, all eligible TxCDBG activities, and the use of past TxCDBG funds. The City encourages citizens to participate in the development of this TxCDBG application and to make their views known at this public hearing. Citizens unable to attend this meeting may submit their views and proposals to Chief Noe Castillo, Interim City Manager at the City Hall, 5332 E. US Highway 83, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582. Persons with disabilities that wish to attend this meeting should contact City Hall at (956) 487-0672 to arrange for assistance. Individuals who require auxiliary aids or services for this meeting should contact City Hall at least two days before the meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made. Para más información en español, comuniquese con Ms. Melissa Garza al (956) 487-0672.

Chief Noe Castillo, Interim City Manager City of Rio Grande City, Texas

Aviso Público Ciudad de Rio Grande 2021-2022 Desarrollo de la Comunidad de Programas de Texas

(Publicado el día 14 de abril 2021)

La Ciudad de Rio Grande tendrá una Audiencia Pública a las 5:30 p.m. el día lunes, 19 de abril del 2021 en la Cámara del Concilio de la Ciudad de Rio Grande, localizada en #5332 E. Highway 83, Rio Grande City, Texas, referente a la entrega de una solicitud al Departamento de Agricultura para el Desarrollo de la Comunidad de Programas de Texas para el 2021-2022.

Se require distanciamento social y usar mascarilla si asiste en persona.

El propósito de esta audiencia es dar la oportunidad a los residentes para discutir el plan de participación de residentes, el desarrollo de vivienda local y las necesidades de la comunidad, la cantidad de fondos disponibles, todas las actividades elegibles de TxCDBG y el uso de fondos de TxCDBG en el pasado. La ciudad hace un llamado a los residentes a participar en el desarrollo de esta solicitud y hacer sus comentarios en esta audiencia pública. Las personas que no pueden asistir a esta audiencia pública, pueden mandar sus comentarios a la oficina al Chief Noe Castillo, Interin Administrador de la Ciudad de Rio Grande City, 5332 E. US Highway 83, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582. Las personas con discapacidades que quieran asistir a esta audiencia deben contactar a la Ciudad de Rio Grande al teléfono (956) 487-0672 para solicitar asistencia.

Personas que requieran equipo especial para escuchar o si tiene alguna discapacidad debe contactar a la Ciudad de Rio Grande por lo menos dos (2) días antes de la reunión.

La audiencia se hará en Español para aquellas personas que así lo deseen.

Chief Noe Castillo, Interin Administrador Ciudad de Rio Grande

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 14, 2021, PAGE 8

LEGAL NOTICE Drive With Care Through Work Zones Work Zone Awareness week especially mindful when driving Application has been made is April 26 - 30, this year, and through work zones. Avoid all with the Texas Alcoholic Medina Electric Cooperative distractions, slow down and give B e v e r a g e C o m m i s s i o n encourage the community to be workers plenty of space. Crews for a WINE AND BEER R E TA I L E R ’ S O N PUBLIC NOTICE Pursuant to the provisions contained in ARTICLE V, Section Five (5) of the Texas PREMISES PERMIT, Abandoned Motor Vehicle Act, we are serving notice to the owners and/or lien holders by: MARIA LETICIA that the below described motor vehicle, has been taken into custody by JJ Wrecker B A R R E R A d b a L A Service, and will be sold. Failure of an owner or lien holder to claim vehicles within thirty (30) days after date of this notice and make payment of all towing, preservation, VALLA RESTAURANT, and storage charges resulting from the placing of vehicles in custody shall constitute to be located at 2734 US a waiver of the right to reclaim vehicle. Contact Juan J. Lopez at 956-487-5929, 6392 HIGHWAY 83, ROMA, E. Hwy 83, Rio Grande City, TX 78582 for information concerning vehicles.

2002 FORD EXPLORER -- WHITE S TA R R C O U N T Y, LIC. PLATE: A12TLF1 TAMAULIPAS, MEXICO TEXAS. VIN: 1FMZU63EX2ZB25121

take precautions to make their workplace safer; drivers should do the same when driving by.

Follow the Move Over Law when you see something or someone on the side of the road.

Originally passed in 2003, it requires motorists to move over a lane, or slow down, when certain vehicles – including utility, police, fire, TxDOT and tow trucks – are stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated.

STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 14, 2021, PAGE 9

Roma ISD Celebrates State Powerlifting Champ Conduzca con cuidado por las zonas de trabajo La semana de concientización sobre las zonas de trabajo es del 26 al 30 de abril de este año, y Medina Electric Cooperative alerta a la comunidad a ser especialmente conscientes al conducir por las zonas de trabajo.

Evite todas las distracciones, reduzca la velocidad y dé a los trabajadores suficiente espacio. Las cuadrillas toman precauciones para hacer que su

lugar de trabajo sea más seguro; el TxDOT y las grúas, se detienen los conductores deben hacer lo al costado de la carretera con las mismo cuando conduzcan. luces de emergencia activadas.

Siga la Ley de Moverse cuando vea algo o alguien al costado de la carretera. Aprobada originalmente en 2003, requiere que los automovilistas se muevan por un carril o reduzcan la velocidad cuando ciertos vehículos, incluidos los servicios públicos, la policía, los bomberos,

Roma ISD was super excited to hold a drive-by celebration for Roma High Mighty Gladiator State Powerlifting Champ Aileen Garza! Thank you to everyone who came by to help celebrate such a huge accomplishment for this awesome student-athlete. Roma ISD are so proud of you Aileen!!

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4Cash Allowance when financed w/GM Financial. Not available with leases and some other offers. All prices plus tax, title and license. Take new retail delivery by 05/03/2021.

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 14, 2021, PAGE 10

Guzman Bookkeeping and Income Tax Inc. NOTARY PUBLIC Walk-ins welcomed after 5:00pm (Monday-Friday) After 2:00pm (Saturday and Sunday)

Looking forward to seeing our regular customers and new customers.

301 N. FM 3167 Suite B, Rio Grande City, Tx. 78582

APARTMENT FOR RENT 3bdrm., 2 bath, Off of Los Alvarez Rd., RGC. $550 mo. +

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FORForPARTIES AND EVENTS info. call or text - Cell Phones:

735-3295 • 487-5050 • 422-8771

NOW HIRING

DIESEL MECHANIC & CDL DRIVER Grande Garbage Collection Co. is currently seeking an experienced Diesel Mechanic and CDL Driver For an application: Call 956-487-4234 to collect and deliver at 505 E. Main Street, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 or e-mail at grandegarbageco@yahoo.com.

NOW HIRING!!!

NOW HIRING Director of Nursing

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Apply In Person at or E-mail Resume: officemanager@falconlakenh.com Falcon Lake Nursing Home 200 Carla Street, Zapata, Texas

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STARR COUNTY TOWN CRIER, APRIL 14, 2021, PAGE 11

Lotebush is a common shrub I’m doing Spring clean-up in my yard and have just pruned a few branches from a lotebush. It’s a common shrub here which occasionally intrudes along the edges of paths to my home.

Lotebush, or gumdrop tree, (Zizyphus obtusifolia) is a standard part of the diverse mixture of plants in the Tamaulipan scrub of the Valley.

It’s one example of why some people think everything in Texas has either thorns or spines. Its branch tips

are all pointed! A lotebush cluster forms an impregnable wall. Birds and other wildlife recognize this and use them for safe nesting and den sites.

You can identify lotebush by its height of around 5 feet, by its short, stiff thorny branches, by its gray-green bark, and by its 1/2 to 1 inch simple leaves which are often in little clusters. If it’s in bloom, the tiny clusters of flowers will be yellow and the subsequent fruits will be purple and about the size of a pea.

The fruits are favorite food for many wildlife species.

One interesting visual aspect

is that, if you look down a main branch from its tip, you’ll see the little side branches align like five spokes of a wheel. Finding such patterns in plants is quite common. Think, for example, about the spiral pattern of seeds in a sunflower head or the pattern of swirls in the bracts of a pine cone.

To learn more about such patterns, investigate the concept of the Fibonacci sequence. It’s fascinating both in terms of mathematics and plant anatomy and even about cosmology. You’ll enjoy reading about it. There are fine articles about it on the internet.

FIND THE PERFECT CHEVY TO TAKE YOU ANYWHERE! People across the Valley come home to Rio Motor Company!

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¿Necesitas ayuda de PROVIDER en tu casa, o conoces a alguien que necesita PROVIDER? Pero, tienen miedo a pedir por temor de perder su propiedad. Sabias que existen cosas a su favor para que eso no suceda.

HABLEME: CONSULTA GRATIS

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Historical Starr County Master Builder Heinrich (Henry) Portscheller 1840-1915 If you walk along the main streets of Roma and Rio Grande City you can’t help and notice the old buildings and their unique design. Some of these buildings are grand enough to be compared to those from Europe.

These structures are all over Rio Grande City and Roma and were designed and constructed by a German immigrant known as Heinrich (Henry) Portscheller.

In 1865, Heinrich Portscheller immigrated to Mexico from his native home country of Germany.

Henry comes from a long line family of master builders. Upon his arrival in Mexico, he confronted the ongoing war between France and Mexico and was made to serve in the imperial forces and was sent North to the Rio Grande. He eventually settled in Starr County.

Portscheller arrived in Starr County shortly after the US American Civil War. During the second half of the 19th century, Roma was the westernmost port on the navigable Rio Grande, and both Roma and Rio Grande City were vibrant commercial centers where an experienced builder could

vernacular architecture into the buildings and his contributions to the distinctive architecture of the lower Rio Grande can be seen throughout Roma’s historic downtown, which today is a designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Examples of Portscheller’s work

find steady work. Portscheller established a brickyard in Roma, using skills passed down through several generations of his family. In time, he designed and constructed many buildings in several towns on both sides of the Rio Grande. Henry brought his acquired master builder and architect skills to the valley.

He applied his old-world skills and integrated them with the practices of local Mexican construction and

seen in Roma today include the Manuel Guerra residence and store, Pablo Ramírez house, Antonia Sáenz house and Nestor Sáenz store. The Silverio de la Peña office and drugstore remains as an existing example of his work in Rio

Grande City. Portscheller’s loadbearing brick buildings are typified by the use of pressed and moulded brick, classical columns and pilasters, ornamental iron balconies,

courtyard arcades, and ornately detailed brick cornices and window and door surrounds. In 1894, the coming of the railroad to Laredo and the associated building boom enticed Portscheller to relocate his family. In Laredo where he lived and worked until his 1915 death, Portscheller was responsible for the construction of St. Peter the Apostle Church, an iron bridge, and several cisterns and residences.

Next time you drive by Rio Grande City and/or Roma’s Main streets slow down or stop by and admire the talent of Herr Portscheller’s left behind in our little corner of the earth.

For more information on Heinrich Portscheller, you find on a book dedicated to his life written by W. Eugene George “Master Builder of the Lower Rio Grande-Heinrich Portscheller”.

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APRIL 14, 2021 PAGE 12

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